A New State of Mind: Ending the Stigma of Mental Illness

Posted by Ashley Strong

"A New State of Mind: Ending the Stigma of Mental Illness" is part of a comprehensive statewide effort to increase the number of people who seek early help for mental challenges by reducing stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness. It does this by sharing the stories of individuals who have suffered and recovered, and the organizations that serve them in communities throughout California.

As part of a national mental health outreach, PBS SoCaL welcomed community members back in late May for an advanced screening of "A New State of Mind: Ending the Stigma of Mental Illness." The attendees of this in studio event got a first glimpse at the new documentary narrated by award-winning actress Glenn Close and produced by KVIE and listened to firsthand accounts from Monica Potts and Melissa Nemeth. The documentary aired nationally on PBS stations on May 30th, 2013.

For resources, mental health organizations and to learn more about "A New State of Mind: Ending the Stigma of Mental Illness" please visit the official website.

Above, featured in the documntary Monica Potts from LAMP Community. The mission of Lamp Community is to end homelessness of Los Angeles' most vulnerable individuals, primarily adults with mental illness, through a continuum of services and housing, enabling them to reach their highest level of self-sufficiency and community integration.

Above, Melissa Nemeth from National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) Orange County. The mission of NAMI Orange County is to provide emotional support, education and resources for families, and those affected by mental illness. In collaboration with the entire community, we advocate for a life of quality and dignity, one without discrimination, for all those persons affected by this illness.